Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust

Stoptober – get ready for the challenge

National campaign calls for all smokers to join a 28-day quitting challenge

During October, the nation’s eight million smokers are being encouraged to take part in the first ever mass quit attempt launched by the Department of Health – Stoptober.

We know that if you can stop smoking for 28 days you are five times more likely to stay smokefree, and Stoptober leads smokers through a detailed step-by-step programme to help them achieve this goal. The new campaign is supported by a preparation pack, 28 day Quit Calendar and Health & Wealth wheel.

Smokers will also receive support and encouragement through a daily messaging service, inspiration from celebrity mentors, and expert advice via:

• Stoptober app (available via Smartphone)

• Motivational text messages

• Facebook page

As well as the financial benefits of stopping smoking, those undertaking the 28 day programme will experience physical improvements including a better sense of smell and taste and more energy. Longer term, those who stop smoking reduce their risk of heart disease and lung cancer as well as protecting others from their secondhand smoke.

Smoking is the biggest cause of premature death in England and each year it accounts for over 100,000 deaths in the UK and one in two long-term smokers will die prematurely from a smoking disease.

Stoptober 2012 kicks off on Monday 1 October and runs for 28 days. For more information and to join the biggest stop smoking challenge of its kind, visit www.smokefree.nhs.uk/Stoptober

In Oxfordshire we’re distributing Stoptober materials through all the GP surgeries and pharmacies – where we have trained NHS stop smoking advisers ready to help – and at Freshers’ Fairs and other local events at workplaces and children’s centres.

You can also find out more about our local stop smoking services by visiting http://www.smokefreeoxfordshire.nhs.uk/ or calling 0845 40 80 300. We have over 1000 advisers across the county who can support you to stop smoking.